Canada warns citizens of possible air travel disruptions amid India-Pakistan tensions

The advisory, issued by Global Affairs Canada, follows India’s launch of ‘Operation Sindoor’ on Wednesday, during which Indian armed forces carried out precision missile strikes on nine terrorist targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan’s Punjab province. The strikes were conducted in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, south Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, most of them tourists.

These are the first Indian strikes in Pakistan’s Punjab province since the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The Canadian advisory cited a “volatile security situation” and noted that artillery exchanges have been reported along the Line of Control (LoC). “Tensions could increase and the situation could deteriorate rapidly,” it warned.

The advisory also raised concerns over possible air travel disruptions in the region. It stated that local authorities in both countries could impose additional security measures, including closure of airspace, which could affect international flight operations.

Canada’s government has urged its citizens in India to remain vigilant, monitor local media, and follow the advice of local authorities. “Avoid areas where there is a heightened security presence and exercise caution in crowded public places,” the advisory added.

India and Pakistan have witnessed renewed hostilities following the Pahalgam attack, with nightly ceasefire violations and civilian displacement reported in border districts. Educational institutions have also been shut in several border areas as a precaution.

Canada's advisory is part of a growing list of international reactions to the escalation, as global concern mounts over the risk of broader conflict.